Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Given that the Chad mission will be different from missions to Liberia, Bosnia or Lebanon because of the different terrain and the challenges it will face, surely a decision should be made on the overseas allowance before the Defence Forces go to Chad. As I understand it, a 5% offer is on the plate. To a private that would mean about €4, which is derisory. I understand that at a PDFORRA conference last year the Minister gave an indication that if a proposal was put forward for 15% he would look favourably on it. In view of the difference between this mission and missions to Liberia, Bosnia, Lebanon and elsewhere a determination should be made on the increase in the allowance as soon as possible. It is not that our Defence Forces are asking for it, but it would show an appreciation of the work they are doing and the challenges they face. While they are in the Army to undertake missions such as this, at the same time they must be rewarded and acknowledged as much as possible.

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